Elmira police Chief Michael "Robby" Robertson will retire in January after more than 29 years on the force, the city announced Wednesday morning.

Robertson, 51, a lifelong Elmira resident, has been chief for the past five years.

“It’s been a very rewarding career,” Robertson said in a prepared statement. “We have a great city and a great police force, and I hope that I have had a positive influence on both. The citizens of our community can be rest assured that they are protected by a very dedicated group of law enforcement professionals."

Robertson began his career with Elmira police in September 1986, working mainly in patrol and in the detective bureau while moving up through the ranks, including assignments as commanding officer in both divisions, according to a news release. Prior to being named chief, he was the department’s deputy chief of operations for six years, the release continued.

Robertson will remain in the area after he retires.

“I love this city, and I’m not going anywhere," he stated in the release. "Obviously we are in some difficult financial times right now, and this past year has been exceptionally tough, but I’m optimistic that brighter days lie ahead."

Robertson said he has no immediate career plans once he retires, but said he will continue in his numerous volunteer roles, including the Eldridge Park Carousel Preservation Society and the Michelob Twin Tiers Jazz Festival.

City Manager Kimberlee Middaugh must submit a candidate for Robertson's replacement to City Council. Middaugh could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

Mayor-elect Dan Mandell, who made police department staffing a key issue in his campaign, said Robertson's retirement will be a big loss for the city.

"Robby's done an outstanding job. He's dedicated to the city," Mandell said. "From what I read, he’s going to stick around and be involved in Eldridge Park and other things, and that’s important, too."

Robertson wouldn't say if recent controversies over police department staffing contributed to his decision to retire, but he said his successor will face a difficult balancing act.

"In 2013, we got a full staff for the first time in many years. We could really be proactive," Robertson said. "Last year, they were talking layoffs, and staff was at an all-time low. It’s not an easy situation with everything going on. We do the best we can do to make sure the department has what it needs to operate effectively."